Bangkok, 22 September 2016 ? The SEC is seeking public comments on the Investment Governance Code (I Code), which contains guidances for institutional investors to manage investment policies and monitor investee companies responsibly for clients? best interest. Declaration of voluntary compliance with the I Code is expected for launch in 2017 and the disclosure of information based on the I Code principles will begin in 2018.

The I Code consists of seven key principles, namely: (1) establishing a clear stewardship policy; (2) sufficiently managing conflicts of interest for clients? best interest; (3) monitoring the investee companies closely and actively; (4) escalating stewardship activiities, when appropriate; (5) disclosing voing policy and the results of voting activities; (6) volunteering collective engagement when appropriate; and (7) disclosing stewardship policy and activities.

The I Code could also be a useful tool for strenthening local institutional investors? competitiveness in the global market, and promoting listed companies? responsible business operation in line with the environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria.

The consultation paper is available at www.sec.or.th/hearing. Stakeholders and interested parties are welcome to submit comments through the website, or facsimile at 0-2695-9986 or email: praneelk@sec.or.th.

The public hearing ends on 31 October 2016.

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